European markets are expected to open sharply after the news of the military operation launched by Vladimir Putin’s Russia against Ukraine. The Ftse Mib is expected to drop by over 900 points to around 25,017 points, according to IG data reported by the CNBC; the London FTSE is expected to fall by 176 points to 7,303, the DAX of the Frankfurt stock exchange with a thud of 526 points to 14,092, the Cac 40 of the Paris stock exchange down by 229 points to 6,551.
Putin announced the military operation in Ukraine, motivating it with the need to protect the Donbass. The Russian president challenged the forces of Kiev to surrender their weapons and “go home”, stating that he did not want to invade the whole country but demilitarize the country. “Anyone who tries to create obstacles for us and interfere in Ukraine know that Russia will respond with consequences never seen before. We are prepared for anything. I hope to be heard,” said Punti, according to the Tass news agency. Explosions heard in the capital Kiev and Kharkiv.